Which garden furniture set is right for you? A complete guide to making the right choice

Are you looking for the perfect garden furniture to enjoy spring and summer in your little corner of paradise? Are you struggling to choose from the multitude of styles, materials, and possible configurations?

Discover our comprehensive guide, designed to help you make an informed purchase so you can fully enjoy your patio or garden.

The different types of garden furniture

To choose the right garden furniture set, you first need to know the different options available. Here are the main types of garden furniture sets, along with a brief overview of their advantages and disadvantages:

Wooden garden furniture

Wood, particularly teak, is prized for its timeless design, robustness, and eco-friendly nature. This natural material blends perfectly into a warm and authentic outdoor décor. However, it requires regular maintenance to withstand the elements.

Furthermore, we advise you to always choose quality wood! A cheap wooden garden furniture set will not be very durable and may not last more than a few years.

Metal garden furniture

Aluminum or steel patio furniture blends seamlessly into a modern, minimalist outdoor space. Lightweight yet often robust, metal patio furniture easily finds its place on a large urban terrace, sheltered by a potted palm tree. It's worth noting that aluminum is very light and naturally resistant to moisture and rust. Steel, on the other hand, requires special treatment to prevent degradation and rusting from exposure to the elements.

Wicker resin garden furniture

This type of furniture is ideal for creating a relaxing space on a budget. However, we recommend investing in plush cushions to disguise the somewhat cheap look of the woven resin. While very weather-resistant, this synthetic material isn't always the most aesthetically pleasing.

Plastic garden furniture

Lightweight and affordable, plastic remains a popular option. While not as high-end, it offers a wide variety of styles and is easy to clean. However, it is a more fragile material than others. The initial investment, although lower, may not last, requiring further investment. In the long run, it is not necessarily the most economical option.

Rattan garden furniture

Rattan, with its natural style, is an essential material for garden (or patio!) furniture. The vast majority of rattan furniture features elegant, curved designs. It's the ideal style for a patio or balcony, especially for bringing a touch of nature into the city. From coffee tables to sofas, rattan captivates with its refined aesthetic.

Be sure to choose quality furniture, otherwise it won't last very long. Also, protect it from direct sunlight, for example, by using a parasol or shade sail . Natural rattan requires specific care to prevent the effects of humidity.

Whatever your choice, we recommend always adding accessories. Cushions, lanterns, privacy screens, and outdoor rugs will allow you to add your personal touch and maximize the comfort of your relaxation space.

The essential criteria for making the right choice

Choosing the ideal garden furniture requires finding the right balance between style, quality and price.

The material: between aesthetics and practicality

If you are lucky enough to live in a sunny region, opt for UV-resistant materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel.

If you live in a humid region, we advise you to opt for moisture-resistant materials, such as teak or woven resin.

Each material has its advantages: wood for its natural charm and comfort, metal for its longevity, and plastic for its lightness and price.

Size: Adapt the furniture to your space

It is essential to measure the available space before making any purchase! What could be worse than buying a beautiful garden furniture set and not being able to use it?

• For small terraces: a coffee table accompanied by two armchairs, or even two folding chairs, may be enough to make you happy.
• For large gardens or terraces that can accommodate complete lounges with modular chairs, tables and sofas, we don't have any particular advice to give, except that we recommend you indulge yourself!

Style: Harmonize the design of the garden furniture with your decor

Feeling uninspired? Unsure which style of table or chairs to choose? Whether it's a table, chairs, or a sofa, your furniture should complement your outdoor décor! Here are a few decorating ideas you might like:

• For a bohemian atmosphere, choose rattan, wood, or woven resin furniture. Add a few large, soft, and colorful cushions to enhance the overall look.
• Those who appreciate minimalism will certainly prefer metal furniture, which is functional and has clean lines. It will also be the preferred choice for people who don't want to maintain their outdoor furniture every year.
• Combine your garden furniture with decorative accessories: green plants, string lights, pennants, rugs, cushions… Your garden lounge is your little corner of paradise!

Comfort: prioritize relaxation and quality

Before buying your furniture, test the height of the tables, chairs, and armchairs. Also try out the cushions to see if their softness suits you!

Also, make sure your legs fit comfortably under the table, even with a cushion. Finally, and this is an important detail: ensure the armrests can be neatly tucked away under the table.

We recommend choosing models with careful ergonomics to enjoy long relaxing evenings, alone or with others.

Current trends in outdoor decor / garden furniture

If you're short on ideas, here are the latest trends for garden furniture:

• Multifunctional furniture: folding tables, modular sofas and furniture with integrated storage, to optimize your spaces even outdoors!
• Mixing materials: combine wood and metal for a contemporary look or wood and glass for furniture with a sublime design.
• Natural colours: beige, light grey, wood and earthy tones for a warm and soothing atmosphere.
• Decorative accessories: a pleasant garden lounge is not just a table and four chairs! It's solar lights, seagrass outdoor rugs, comfortable cushions and succulents for a cozy touch.

Care tips to extend the life of your garden furniture

To preserve your garden furniture and keep it in good condition for as long as possible, it is best to maintain it.

• Clean regularly: use a damp cloth to remove dust and stains.
• Protect your furniture: invest in protective covers to protect them from the elements.
• Renovate if necessary: ​​apply wood stain, exotic wood oil to teak and a coat of rust inhibitor to steel.
• Store in winter: if possible, store your furniture in a dry place during the off-season.

Discover our tips for choosing garden furniture that can stay outside in winter .

FAQ:

What type of material is best suited for my future garden furniture?

If you live in a rainy area, opt for water-resistant materials such as plastic or aluminum. Conversely, for a sunny area, wood, especially teak, or steel will be ideal.

Do you dream of a lovely little wooden garden, but live under the Breton sun? If you have a garden shed or a spacious garage, you can give in to temptation and choose the garden furniture of your dreams, whatever the material!

What size lounge set would be suitable for my outdoor space?

For a small patio area, opt for a compact lounge set with a coffee table and folding chairs. For a large garden space, you can afford to buy a modular garden lounge set with several armchairs and even a sofa.

Which models are the most comfortable?

We recommend choosing models with a deep seat and a backrest adapted to your body type. Of course, if they aren't included with the armchair, chair, or sofa, you'll absolutely need to buy some thick cushions!

Choosing the right garden furniture starts with identifying your priorities: material, available space, style, and budget. Whether you opt for woven resin, wood, or metal furniture, take the time to compare the different models available. And of course, follow our advice for a successful purchase and to create an outdoor space that reflects your personal style, perfect for relaxation and socializing!

Consumer reviews:

Léa B. - 28 years old, Biarritz (64)

"I fell in love with a rattan coffee table and sofa with a steel frame (more durable!) last year. I was a little worried that these two pieces of furniture wouldn't go together, but in the end, with a few shimmering cushions and colorful lanterns, the result is superb!"

Rigoleta R. - 67 years old, Loudéac (22)

“I bought a light wood table and woven resin chairs for my garden, but I was initially unsure about how to care for these materials. In the end, with a little attention, they look impeccable. What I love is how the wood catches the sunlight (and the superb views I have sitting on the corner of my patio). With a few decorative accessories – lanterns and hanging plants – I’ve created a space that’s both comfortable and stylish, where I love to spend time at dusk. Rigoleta R.”